4. Forefoot Trauma (JM)

Question 1

forefoot fractures: most common

Answer 1

fractures of phalanges and MTs are most common

Question 2

estimates of all fractures being of MTs?

Answer 2

approx >5% of fractures are MTs (but this is low bc of low morbidity of fractures; oftentimes these go untreated)

Question 3

describe treatment of PHALANGEAL FRACTURES

Answer 3

these are often stable and require NO TREATMENT

Question 4

what is important to remember with a hallux fracture?

Answer 4

do NOT tape or buddy splint to the 2nd toe –> bc it will heal in a VALGUS position, possibly resulting in a deformed toe

Question 5

how would you treat an INTRA-ARTICULAR TOE FRACTURE (fracture into the joint space)

Answer 5

usually not treated much differently than a phalangeal fracture; SHOULDN’T put hardware in a joint unless you absolutely have to

Question 6

when might we put hardware into a joint?

Answer 6

if we are fusing it, or at the lisfranc’s complex

the only exception might be hallux

Question 7

biomechanics of 1st MPJ injury

Answer 7

result of forceful dorsiflexion at MPJ; can cause sprain, dislocation, or sesamoid fracture

Question 8

top 3 causes of a 1st MPJ injury

Answer 8

MC: Motor vehicle accident, (2) fall from a height, (3) push-off in track or football/sports